Disease Directory Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Connective Tissue

Osteogenesis Imperfecta

Also known as: brittle bone disease, OI, lobstein syndrome

Prevalence

1 in 10,000–20,000

Onset

Congenital or early childhood

Type

Genetic — autosomal dominant (most), autosomal recessive (rare types)

Gene

COL1A1, COL1A2

About Osteogenesis Imperfecta

Osteogenesis imperfecta is a heritable connective tissue disorder caused by defects in type I collagen synthesis, leading to abnormally fragile bones that fracture with minimal or no trauma. Clinical severity ranges from mild forms with relatively few fractures to lethal perinatal forms with extreme skeletal fragility and pulmonary insufficiency. All types share deficient or structurally abnormal collagen as the underlying molecular defect.

Common Clinical Features

Recurrent low-trauma or spontaneous bone fractures Blue or grey sclerae Short stature and skeletal deformity Dentinogenesis imperfecta (brittle, discoloured teeth) Progressive sensorineural or conductive hearing loss Joint hypermobility and ligamentous laxity Kyphoscoliosis

Clinical Trial Eligibility Tips

What to know before applying to Osteogenesis Imperfecta trials.

Document fracture history and DEXA bone mineral density results before enrolling — most trials require baseline densitometry and a minimum fracture count in the prior 12 months.

Bisphosphonate use is a common exclusion criterion; confirm washout periods and current medication regimen with the trial coordinator.

Type classification (I–V or molecular subtype) is often required; ensure genetic confirmation of COL1A1/COL1A2 pathogenic variant is on file.

Patient Resources

Patient Organization

Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation

Visit website ↗

Natural History Registry

OIF Patient Registry

Join registry ↗

Orphanet

European reference resource for rare diseases (ORPHA:666)

View on Orphanet ↗

NORD

National Organization for Rare Disorders

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Find recruiting Osteogenesis Imperfecta trials

Search 500,000+ studies from ClinicalTrials.gov, filtered for Osteogenesis Imperfecta. Updated daily.

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